VILLA PARK— State agencies now have an easier path to donating food to local food pantries, soup kitchens and non-profit organizations thanks to a law championed by State Senator Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park).

Cullerton supported Senate Bill 2606, which requires state agencies to donate leftover food that was purchased with state funds. It was signed into law earlier this month.

“Leftover food that is purchased with state dollars should not be wasted and it should go to our taxpayers with the greatest need,” Cullerton said. “It’s disappointing that we have to legislate this, but it is an important step forward.”

Under current law, no public entity can enter into a procurement contract for food services that prohibits the agency from donating any leftover food to a food bank. Senate Bill 2606 would require those agencies to create a policy to donate any leftover food procured with state funds.

“This new law will have a big impact on alleviating hunger in our communities,” Cullerton said. “We need to continue to implement commonsense measures to address food shortages across our state and nation.”

Senate Bill 2606 goes into effect immediately.

eNewsletter Signup

eNewsletter Signup

First Name(*)

Invalid Input

Last Name(*)

Invalid Input

Your Email(*)

Please let us know your email address.

CONTACT SENATOR CULLERTON

Welcome to the official website of Senator Tom Cullerton. Please fill out our contact form to contact Senator Cullerton directly or you may call either of our offices. We look forward to hearing from you.